Taliban allow Hewad Company’s services in Paktia

GARDEZ (Pajhwok): The Taliban facilities in southeastern Paktia province to resume functioning, an official said on Wednesday.

The Taliban banned health facilities in the province after the Hewad Contract holder companies refused to accept their demands.

The Taliban, however, said they banned Hewad Company over low quality health services and massive corruption.

Now the rebels have asked the companies to provide salaries to health workers serving in their areas, provide them ambulances and other facilities.

Health Department Director Dr. Walayat Khan Ahmadzai said people suffered a lot due to the ban on health services. He said health services resumed in the provinces with support of people and mediation of tribal elders.

“It is our principle as well that health services should be of top quality. We are working here to provide health facilities to people,” he said.

Paktia Dorctors Union Member Dr. Mohammad Asif Ahmadzai criticized the Public Health Ministry for not paying attention multiple problems plaguing the Paktia health sector.

He alleged the Hewad Company obtained 10 marks less than other companies in the examination for attaining the contract, but still it was awarded the contract.

Dr. Fazal Mohammad Mangal, provincial head of the Hewad Company, said the Taliban did not repeat their earlier conditions and allowed the delivery of medicines and supervision of services in the facilities.

“All clinics are open and we have started working to deliver medicines to all facilities,” he said.

Paktia Governor, Provincial Council members and residents had complained about low quality services of the Hewad Company and had asked the Public Health Ministry to revoke its contract.

nh/ma